Men's 2XI Vs City of Bath B

West Wilts 2nd XI travelled the short distance up the road to play City of Bath B in a top of the table clash. Both teams have a competitive history with one another in this league, and both find themselves fighting for promotion once more.

With promotion aims set in their minds, and a lacklustre performance last week to make up for, Wilts started the game very well. High intensity and high pressure from the very first minute of the game let their opposition know what they were up against. Purposeful movement off the ball ensured that Wilts were able to play short, sharp triangles through the midfield and create opportunities. The first of which fell to James Baker who finished with a reverse stick shot to the top corner. Next up Ali Higginson, centre midfield dynamo, stepped up and deflected home from a short corner to make it 2-0. Before the half was up City of Bath managed to convert one of their few short corners, making it 2-1.

Going in at half time Wilts knew that the next goal was key. A City of Bath goal would encourage them and enable them to get back into the game. A Wilts goal would give that ever-so-important buffer.

Continuing from the first half the 14 strong squad of Wilts pressed hard a fast from the starting whistle. More excellent movement and more excellent passages of play through the defence and midfield created more chances for the Wilts front line. Rob Heyes capitalised with a fantastic diving effort on the back post to grab himself a goal. Higginson rocked up and fired a beautiful reverse shot home for his second, and Baker managed to convert another of his chances to take Wilts’ tally to 5. It must be said, City of Bath played well. They attacked Wilts with speed and guile and created chances for themselves. Man of the match, Clive Nash, in the Wilts goal fended off a fair few shots and drag flicks to ensure Wilts stayed ahead. In the closing minutes of the game one of the drag flicks got through and the game ended 5-2 to Wilts.

A great performance throughout. A galvanising win. A lot of fun had by all.

Wilts now sit proud on top of the table and look to replicate the formula in the next 3 matches leading up to the winter break. It’s all in their hands now!